What is an IBAN?

Modified on Thu, 11 Jan, 2024 at 10:06 AM

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What is an IBAN?

IBAN is the abbreviation for International Bank Account Number. You will almost always need the beneficiary or receiver’s bank account details including IBAN to complete an international money transfer. 


IBANs are used in most of countries including the US, UK, all EU countries, Pakistan, the Middle East, and Africa.

Different countries have different IBAN numbers, but they typically have up to 34 letters and numbers. They include:

  • Country code
  • Check digits
  • Bank Identifier Code (or BIC)
  • Branch Code
  • Account Number

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What is a SWIFT Code/BIC?

SWIFT and BIC are used interchangeably for the international bank code that helps identify banks around the world. 

Every bank has its own code that helps customers identify a specific bank amongst many and where the bank is located. It is typically 8 to 11 characters long and consists of numbers and letters.


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What is a Routing Number?

A bank routing number is also known as a routing transit number and international routing code. It is a nine-digit number used to identify certain banks.


The difference between IBAN and routing number is that IBAN identifies specific accounts while routing number only specifies the location of the banks. 


The difference between SWIFT code and routing number is that SWIFT is used for international transactions and transfers while routing number is used to identify bank location when a domestic transfer is being made.


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